Video of man jumping on manatee investigated

MIAMI – Wildlife officials are investigating an online video that shows a man jumping on two manatees.

The video shows a man doing a cannonball on top of what appears to be a manatee and a young calf swimming near a dock in a residential area somewhere in Florida. A voice is heard saying, “Should I do it? Let’s do it. Jump, jump, jump.”

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the video was shot more than a year and a half ago. The agency is investigating possible violations of the Endangered Species Act.

Anyone who violates the act’s provision against harassing, harming, pursuing, hunting or killing a protected species can face up to $100,000 in fines, up to a year in prison, or both.

Manatees are protected by both state and federal laws.

Federal News Network Logo
Log in to your WTOP account for notifications and alerts customized for you.

Sign up